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There are all sorts of ways to get in touch with someone. Calling is the most direct, while e-mail is probably a close second. Steven and Sara, both 25, had another idea — social media. Over dinner at Sotto 13 in the West Village, Sara was endeared by Steven’s picture-taking during their meal, and he found her calm in comparison to girls he usually dates. Find out why they decided to end their night with a compromise on Facebook friendship.

He said:

When I arrived at Sotto 13, Sara was already there, which was good. I was starving and didn’t want to wait to eat. My first impression of her was she seemed artsy and educated.

It turns out I was right. Our conversation ranged from her work in theater to the idea of astral projection. She was easygoing and calm, which was different for me. I usually date girls who are more combative.

Sotto 13 was an awesome date venue. I would come back for the food alone. The calamari pizza was unbelievable — they even cut fresh herbs directly on it.

While Sara and I didn’t have that extra spark, we connected on Facebook — not for a date, but maybe for another platonic and fun night.

She said:

I arrived at Sotto 13 early and was happy to relax before Steven arrived. I tried a drink while waiting: green apple bourbon, infused at the restaurant — fantastic. Steven arrived a few minutes later.

We didn’t have much in common — but I was endeared by how Steven didn’t dawdle much on small talk. We didn’t see eye to eye on everything, but we share a genuine curiosity about the world, so that made for interesting conversation.

The food at Sotto 13 was incredible. I’m a vegetarian, and there was plenty on the menu for me, even though it isn’t a vegetarian restaurant. The manager himself chose wines to pair with our food. Steven tweeted pictures of the meal, which was funny.

We parted with a Facebook friend request and friendly hug. I didn’t feel any romantic chemistry. But I left well-fed, tipsy and smiling.